Under Construction
One House. Many Lives.
Houston Student Design Challenge

Design a legally single‑family home that lives like many.

Real lot: 4125 Woodcraft St, 77025. Create a two‑story home with a versatile suite (in‑law/office/guest) under one roof — private, elegant, and compliant. The winning concept will be developed and built in 2026.

Prize: $1,500Houston‑wideSingle PDF submission

Register now Download brief (PDF)

What makes this different?

  • Real site, real constraints, real build.
  • Versatility over square footage: one shell, many lives.
  • Legally one dwelling; architecturally two zones.
  • Public storytelling during construction.

Project Description

We’re challenging a 1950s single‑family template with a 2025 reality: multi‑generational living, hybrid work, rising costs. Design a home that keeps legal unity while offering a private, flexible suite — in‑law studio, college‑age retreat, caregiver space, or office with bath and wet bar.

Downloads: Site survey (PDF) · Reference plans (PDF)

Competition Brief

  • One PDF (max 12 pages): site plan, floor plans, key sections, 2–4 renderings/diagrams.
  • Design statement (350–600 words): privacy, circulation, compliance strategy.
  • Label suite as Guest/Office Flex Suite (avoid “unit/apartment”).
  • Optional: 30–60s video pitch (link/QR).

Students are not required to produce permit drawings. The winning concept will be developed by a licensed architect.

Schedule & Updates

  • Nov (TBA): Call for entries opens
  • +2 weeks: Q&A webinar
  • +6 weeks: Submissions due
  • +2 weeks: Jury & announcement
  • 2025→2026: Development & build

We’ll post updates and date confirmations here.

Jury & Partners

  • Invited: Prof. Donna Kacmar (UH)
  • Invited: AIA Houston Residential Committee
  • Invited: Local architects (e.g., StudioMET)
  • Organizer: Under Construction Initiative

Register & Submit

Step 1 — Registration

Thanks! You're registered.

Step 2 — Project Submission

For large files, share a viewable link. For small PDFs, you may also upload directly:
Submitted! You'll receive a confirmation.

Competition Brief & Materials

Download Competition Brief (PDF)

We’ll add updates and additional reference materials here.